San Francisco - October 28, 2005

Object of My Confection

I Dream of Cake Gallery

They say dreams do come true.

So far, we’re waiting for Romeo to sweep us off our feet. And that fun dream job that makes us filthy rich? Hasn’t presented itself yet.

On a more positive note, dream up the most outrageous shape (or, heck, come up with a whole scene) for a celebratory cake, and Shinmin Li will bring it to life.

Her new North Beach gallery, I Dream of Cake, is devoted to stunning edible works of art. Each is a blissful marriage of Li’s professional training in both graphic design and pastry making. Up for any challenge, she uses techniques like hand-painting, sculpting (no molds), and custom stencils to make confections that look so true to form it’s shocking.

Not that she’s lost sight of the palate: Her cakes taste as good as they look. Using mostly organic ingredients, she’ll customize flavors to your liking.

Stop by and take a peek at her current display of boot, stiletto, handbag, and book cakes, or let her have a shot at building the cake that exists only in your imagination.

As for that pet unicorn, well, dream on.

I Dream of Cake, 1351 Grant Avenue, between Green and Vallejo Streets (415-989-2253 or idreamofcake.com).

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

  Bespoke, Birthday Cake, Special Occasion